Long, Late First Half Drive Propels Lions Over Eagles

One long, efficient drive by Des Moines Christian seemed to be the difference maker last night in Johnston, when the Lions defeated Pella Christian 30 – 17. The Eagles were up 10 – 0 thanks to a pair of defensive three-and-outs and good field position as a result. However, with time running out in the first half and the Lions pinned at their own three yard line, Des Moines Christian marched downfield 97 yards in 13 plays to get on the scoreboard and seize control of the game. The Lions’ defense came up with a fumble recovery and an interception in the second half, both of which were returned for a touchdown. Assistant coach, Darryl DeRuiter says that the turnover to begin the second half is what really got the snowball rolling downhill. Mason Howerzyl has 159 rushing yards and a touchdown to highlight the Eagles’ night, and Carson Dugger caught five passes for 62 yards, including some big conversions on third down. Pella Christian falls to 2 – 2 on the year and 1 – 1 in Class 1A District 7. They will play another road game next Friday at Sigourney-Keota.